Faith
Faith
Origins
BCM is a charity with its roots in Christianity and particularly Methodism – an expression of faith defined by it’s readiness to counteract the injustices of poverty and exclusion in the world – directly inspired by the words and actions of Jesus Christ.
Those teachings have underpinned much of civil society’s modern understanding of justice and compassion. We recognize that regardless of whether any one person has a faith of any type, or indeed none, the Christian response to the social issues of our time remains one that is worth pursuing.
As has been the case for 136 years in Belfast and beyond, our work has been underpinned by the Christian message of hope. Throughout that time, countless lives have been changed, either physically, spiritually or in many instances both.
“Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.”
Faith
faith in action
BCM has shared origins with the Grosvenor Hall Methodist congregation, which recently ceased meeting after 136 years of dedicated community and service.
This marks a turning point for the organisation as we move forward without an active church congregation for the first time in our history. Over many decades, we have had to contend with barriers in delivering ‘church’ to the centre of the city. From bomb scares during the Troubles, to the far-reaching impact of COVID, this group of committed believers has overcome many challenges throughout their existence.
As neighbourhoods have evolved around us, and with Grosvenor House sitting squarely in perhaps Belfast’s most rapidly changing district, the manifestation of ‘mission’ must now change also. New expressions of faith-based support and regeneration are already in the planning, and we look forward to a new season in our provision of faith services in years to come.
Promoting the Christian Faith
Supporting People On their Journey
Inspiring & Enabling Action
Connecting Diverse Voices
Faith
Faith community support
Our Christian ethos runs throughout the organisation, shaping our values and approach and our diverse social care programme is an expression of our Christian faith in action.
Our residential care homes are built on a model that upholds identity and beliefs as central to an older person’s care. We offer a Christian chaplaincy service in each home, offering regular acts of worship and pastoral support.
As we move into a new phase of faith engagement, we are also striving for newness as we partner with BRF Ministries and Anna Chaplaincy. This will deliver adapted chaplaincy services in later life- working to expand this important work into local community settings in partnership with other church communities across Northern Ireland.
BCM also supports the faith community through wider support of initiatives such as Belfast City Centre Chaplaincy and 4 Corners Festival.